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Recently, Haryana’s first Constellation Garden was developed at the Saraswati Wildlife Sanctuary in the Seonsar forest area of Pehowa, Kurukshetra district. The initiative aims to combine ecological conservation with cultural and astronomical awareness, thereby promoting eco-tourism in the region.
Saraswati Wildlife Sanctuary
The Saraswati Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as the Seonsar Forest, is situated in the districts of Kaithal and Kurukshetra in Haryana. It spreads across an area of nearly 4,452.85 hectares and is one of the ecologically and culturally significant protected areas of the state.
The sanctuary derives its importance from its association with the mythical Saraswati River, which is believed to have once flowed through this region. Owing to this historical linkage, the sanctuary holds both environmental and civilizational value.
Archaeological evidence discovered in the sanctuary highlights its ancient habitation. Bricks dating back to the Kushan and Gupta periods have been found here, indicating human settlement more than 1,500 years ago. In addition, a 400-year-old water well built using small lakhauri bricks from the Mughal era further reflects the historical continuity of the region.
Flora
The sanctuary mainly consists of tropical deciduous forests. Common tree species found here include:
- Kikar
- Neem
- Shisham
- Peepal
These forests help maintain ecological balance and support rich biodiversity.
Fauna
The sanctuary serves as an important habitat for several wild animals such as:
- Blue Bull (Nilgai)
- Wild Boar
- Spotted Deer
- Hog Deer (rare species)
It is also a paradise for bird watchers, hosting more than 250 species of resident and migratory birds, especially during the winter season. Wetland patches and forest cover provide suitable breeding and feeding grounds for avian species.
Constellation Garden: A Unique Initiative
The newly developed Constellation Garden is inspired by the concept of zodiac constellations and aims to blend astronomy with environmental conservation. Different plants and trees are associated with various zodiac signs, encouraging visitors to understand the relationship between nature, culture, and celestial science.
The project is expected to:
- Promote eco-tourism in Haryana
- Enhance environmental awareness
- Encourage conservation education
- Increase local employment opportunities
Such initiatives also align with India’s broader goals of sustainable tourism and biodiversity conservation.